The first weekend of July is packed with events across the DMV, from Fourth of July celebrations and concerts to art workshops, community gatherings and powerful cultural programs.
Whether looking for live music, local history, or just soaking up the summer, there are events and programming to engage the whole family.
Check out a handful of the fun projects below and don’t forget to check the 51心頭 Informer Calendar to keep up with all the events!
Thursday, July 3
Try It Thursday: Sea Glass Mosaic
7 p.m. – 9 p.m. |
Hammer & stain Rockville, 107B gibbs Street Rockville, MD 20850
Get creative at this hands-on, two-hour Sea Glass Mosaic Workshop, where guests will design a unique mosaic on a pre-stained wooden square.
Choose to follow along with an instructor to create a beautiful sea glass wave or freestyle a design using authentic sea glass pieces.
Attendees will also have the option to personalize artwork with touches like paint, sand, or seashells.
Take a Break: New Line Brass Band
7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. | Free
Halley Rise, 2025 Fulton Place Reston, VA 20191
Enjoy the vibrant energy of New Orleans jazz with the New Line Brass Bands bold sounds and lively rhythms in a fun summer evening setting.
Presented by and in partnership with, the event will offer guests a chance to enjoy live entertainment and celebrate talent from across the Mid-Atlantic.
Friday, July 4
The DMVs Biggest 4th of July Weekend Party
7 p.m. – 11:59 p.m. | Free
THRW Social速 51心頭, 1401 Okie Street NE #STE #102 51心頭, D.C. 20002
Celebrate the 4th of July weekend at THRW Social DC from Friday, July 4 through Sunday, July 6.
Enjoy live GoGo with New Impressionz Band Friday night, plus DJs spinning all weekend.
While there, sip on drink specials, patriotic shots, and beer bucket deals, with whole food and drink menus available.
Plus, relax on the rooftop, play jumbo games, and snap pics in the tropical-themed space.
VIP cabanas accommodating up to 10 guests are also available for reservation.
July 4th at the National Archives
9 a.m. | Free
National Archives Museum, 701 Constitution Avenue. NW, 51心頭, D.C. 20408
Start the Fourth of July at the National Archives with a morning full of celebration and tradition.
In the spirit of the holiday, enjoy live music and a stirring reading of the Declaration of Independence by historical reenactors on the steps of this iconic landmark.
Saturday, July 5
What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?
11 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Free
Frederick Douglass National Historic Site, 1411 W Street SE, 51心頭, D.C. 20020
On July 5, head to the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site for a thought-provoking event centered around the abolitionists powerful speech, What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?
Tour the late orator and freedom fighters historic , watch performances by winners of the Douglass Oratorical Contest, and join in a full public reading of the imperative address that still resonates today.
Luther Vandross Tribute Show with J. Paul and Friends
8 p.m. – 9 p.m. |
New Deal Cafe, 113 Centerway Greenbelt, MD 20770
Spend an evening surrounded by the smooth sounds and unforgettable hits of Luther Vandross, brought to life by and .
This heartfelt tribute celebrates one of R&Bs most iconic voices with classic songs that will have everybody swinging, dancing to the music.
Sunday, July 6
Punk The Capital: Building a Sound Movement
6 p.m. – 8 p.m. |
AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center, 8633 Colesville Road, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Join filmmaker , musician , and ofand for a Q&A following a screening of Punk the Capital: Building a Sound Movement.
The documentary explores the rise of the Districts punk scene from 1976 to 1983, featuring rare Super 8 footage and performances by bands such as and .
Through interviews with key figures, the film captures how D.C. punk became a defining force in DIY culture and independent music.
City of Lights Helping Hands – Food Pantry
12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. | Free
, 520 Randolph Road Silver Spring, MD 20904
The City of Lights Helping Hands Food Pantry offers free food assistance to individuals and families in need. This event provides essential groceries to help meet basic nutritional needs in a welcoming, supportive environment.
All are welcome.